Central Greece

Written By Alper Billik

Central Greece, or Sterea Ellada, is a significant and diverse wine-producing area in mainland Greece. This region includes several lesser-known yet important sub-regions that contribute to the rich tapestry of Greek viticulture.

Sub-Regions

1. Attica

  • Location: Surrounds the capital city, Athens.

  • Climate: Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and mild winters.

  • Key Grape Varieties: Savatiano, Roditis, Assyrtiko.

  • Notable Producers:

    • Papagiannakos Winery: Renowned for high-quality Savatiano wines.

    • Mylonas Winery: Known for its innovative approach to Assyrtiko and Malagousia.

  • Wine Styles: Crisp, refreshing white wines; Retsina (traditional Greek wine infused with pine resin).

2. Boeotia

  • Location: North of Attica.

  • Climate: Continental with Mediterranean influences.

  • Key Grape Varieties: Savatiano, Assyrtiko, Agiorgitiko.

  • Notable Producers:

    • Domaine Muses: Focuses on indigenous and international varieties, producing balanced reds and whites.

    • Avantis Estate: Produces a range of wines, including Malagousia and Syrah.

  • Wine Styles: Fresh, aromatic whites and structured reds.

3. Evia (Euboea)

  • Location: The second-largest island in Greece, located off the eastern coast of mainland Greece.

  • Climate: Mediterranean with regional variations.

  • Key Grape Varieties: Savatiano, Malagousia, Assyrtiko, Aidani.

  • Notable Producers:

    • Vriniotis Winery: Known for its expressive Assyrtiko and Aidani.

    • Lykos Winery: Focuses on indigenous and international varieties.

  • Wine Styles: Diverse range, including fresh whites, rosés, and robust reds.

4. Phthiotis

  • Location: Northern part of Central Greece.

  • Climate: Continental with significant diurnal temperature variations.

  • Key Grape Varieties: Savatiano, Roditis, Assyrtiko, Malagousia.

  • Notable Producers:

    • Hatzimichalis Estate: Produces high-quality wines focusing on local and international varieties.

  • Wine Styles: Aromatic whites and well-balanced reds.

Wine Styles

1. White Wines

  • Key Varieties: Savatiano, Roditis, Assyrtiko, Malagousia.

  • Characteristics: Fresh, aromatic, and often with a high acidity. Some wines, particularly those from higher altitudes, exhibit mineral notes.

2. Red Wines

  • Key Varieties: Agiorgitiko, Syrah, Merlot.

  • Characteristics: Structured with balanced tannins and acidity. Flavors range from red and dark fruits to spice and earthiness.

3. Retsina

  • Description: A traditional Greek wine infused with pine resin.

  • Key Varieties: Primarily made from Savatiano.

  • Characteristics: Fresh, crisp, with distinctive pine resin aromas and flavors.

Notable Producers

  1. Papagiannakos Winery

    • Notable Wines: Savatiano, Assyrtiko.

    • Style: Focus on traditional and modern expressions of indigenous varieties.

  2. Mylonas Winery

    • Notable Wines: Assyrtiko, Malagousia.

    • Style: Innovative and fresh, with a focus on purity of fruit and balance.

  3. Domaine Muses

    • Notable Wines: Muses Estate Red (Agiorgitiko blend) and White (Assyrtiko blend).

    • Style: Balanced and expressive wines from both local and international varieties.

  4. Vriniotis Winery

    • Notable Wines: Assyrtiko, Aidani.

    • Style: Focus on indigenous varieties, highlighting the unique terroir of Evia.

Summary

Central Greece, or Sterea Ellada, is a diverse wine region known for its varied climates and terroirs. The region's sub-regions, such as Attica, Boeotia, Evia, and Phthiotis, contribute unique wine styles ranging from crisp whites to robust reds. Notable producers like Papagiannakos, Mylonas, Domaine Muses, and Vriniotis showcase the potential of this region with their high-quality wines.

Alper Billik
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